Evaluating the use of the landslide database in spatial planning in mountain communes (the Polish Carpathians)

Abstract Landslide hazards and risk assessment should be a basic tool in risk management, as well as an integral part of spatial planning, especially in mountain areas The study addresses the problem of inappropriate allocation of land for residential and economic functions in terms of landslide hazard. The research covered the area of the Polish Carpathians within voivodships of Malopolskie and Podkarpackie, in which there are 201 communes. The occurrence of landslides in relation to existing and potential residential areas was examined in detail for 14 selected communes. This area due to their geological structure and relief is prone to landslides in inhabited areas. The current vector databases of landslides (the Landslide Counteracting System-LCS, SOPO Polish acronym), data on planning coverage in communes (Ministry of Development and Central Statistical Office of Poland), location of existing buildings (Database of Topographic Objects, BDOT, Polish acronym), and range and purpose of local spatial development plan (LSDP; Geo-System) were used. A high natural hazard of landslides in the 14 analysed communes in the Polish Carpathians (1–23% of the communes area) was demonstrated, as well as faulty spatial planning related to the designation of land for development in local plans (up to 11% on landslides). Dissemination of knowledge about landslide locations and threats and proper spatial planning is the most effective form of reducing the risk of landslide losses. Landslide data and maps should be made widely available to local communities, along with information on planned land use. It is necessary to raise landslide awareness among local communities with information campaigns and to consider scientific arguments in the elaboration process of the LSDP, and while accelerating the process of updating them.